Iron is an essential mineral, as well as a valuable component when it comes to oxygen transport and metabolism. It is also one of the most significant factors involved in the synthesis of various neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. In fact, the body stores about 15% of our iron intake for use when out dietary intake proves to be insufficient. The body also maintains iron levels by controlling the amount of iron it absorbs from the food we eat.

Iron health is important and as such we need to include it in our daily diet. Some food items that are rich in iron include: beans, flours, leafy greens, cereals, lentils, strawberries, peas, nuts, asparagus and dried fruit. The World Health Organization or WHO actually considers iron deficiency to be the biggest international disorder that’s related to nutrition. This deficiency can be determined through measuring the levels of iron in our body, serum ferritin levels in particular, which can also help differentiate iron deficiency from anemia as well as anemia that is related to another chronic disease.

Iron health benefits include the following:

Iron in Ferrous Sulfate is used to treat anemia cause by iron deficiency. It helps in normalizing serum ferritin but might not be able to raise the low level of hemoglobin in people who suffer from chronic under nutrition as well as from micronutrient deficiency. Supplemental iron absorption is also reduced in people who require chronic hemodialysis. Taking iron supplements should be done under the supervision of a health professional and it can usually take a couple of months or more for the body to restore proper levels.

Iron also helps in the prevention of anemia and iron deficiency in pregnant women. Taking iron supplements during pregnancy helps avoid this as well as premature birth, maternal mortality and low birth weight. However, before you start taking iron supplements, be sure that you have your healthcare provider’s approval.

Iron supplements also help in the treatment of predialysis anemia. Taking these supplements would help avoid the high cost of erythropoietin therapy as well as its related side effects such as high blood pressure. Do note that it is imperative to have your healthcare provider assess everything first before you take the supplements as it needs to be accurate.

Iron is also great for women beauty and health.

1. It encourages a restful sleep.
2. It can boost a body’s energy level thus improving physical performance.
3. Helps ease pain during painful menstruation periods.
4. Stronger, long-lasting nails.
5. Can tone and nurture skin by removing carbon dioxide and delivering oxygen to every cell of the body.
6. Protects cells and tissues of the body from oxidative damage and encourages collagen production.
7. Excellent mineral for skincare.

Check out other important minerals that aids in health, natural weight loss, and skin care:

• Zinc Health
• Milk Health
• Magnesium Health
• Minerals Health
• Niacin Health
• Oil Health
• Potassium Health
• Protein Health
• Selenium Health